Reycraft v. McDonald

This is an action for slander, and at the trial the circuit judge directed a verdict for defendant. *501Plaintiff brings the case to this court by writ of error. The alleged slanderous words were used in a statement made by defendant to the probate judge of the county, in his official capacity, to the effect that plaintiff was insane and needed hospital treatment. The statement was made in the office of the judge of probate when only defendant and the judge were present. It is clear from the record that it was for the purpose of instituting proceedings by which plaintiff’s alleged insanity should…